Page:The Earl of Auckland.djvu/22

16 schemes of conquest in the neighbouring provinces of Sind. In the North-Western Provinces the new settlement of the land revenue was going steadily forward under the control of Robert Bird. English officers were successfully teaching the wild tribes of Mairwára, Khándesh, and Gúmsúr to forego their barbarous rites and practices in exchange for the blessings of civilized rule. The Indian Treasuries were full to overflowing. Cold-mannered, reticent, shy, good-natured, robust of figure, disliking all pomp and parade, and delighting in regular official work, Lord Auckland was eminently fitted by temperament and long experience to discharge the most exacting duties of quiet times.

Of his ability there was no doubt. A few years later Lord Fitzgerald, as President of the Board of Control, testified warmly to the strong impression which Lord Auckland's despatches and State papers had made upon him; adding that 'he was, with the sole exception of Lord John Russell, by far the ablest member of his party. His views most statesmanlike, and his government of India particularly just.' According to Charles Greville who knew him well, 'his understanding was excellent, his temper placid, his taste and tact exquisite, his disposition, notwithstanding his apparent gravity, cheerful, and under his cold exterior there was a heart overflowing with human kindness, and with the deepest feelings of affection, charity, and benevolence.' Throughout his career he seems to have made no personal enemies,